While the bulk of visitors last year came from the traditional European market there was little growth. Arrivals from Asia increased at a faster rate with many coming from China.

Seychelles is a popular leisure destination, famed for its azure waters, white beaches and luxury spas. However, the slowdown in European economies has weighed heavily on tourism and the government is looking to develop new Asian markets.

The country forecasts modest growth in tourism of 3 percent this year.

The sector has struggled to grow as the euro zone debt crisis has hit European travel, while the Seychelles is vulnerable to volatility in global food and fuel prices.

Seychelles economic growth is expected to reach 3 percent in 2013 while inflation has slowed to 3.6 percent.